Beverage brewing devices

ABSTRACT

Capsules for holding in an interior space a portion of a product for preparing a food product include a first part ( 501 ) and a second part ( 502 ), arranged along a direction of extension (A). The first and second parts define at least a portion of an interior space (S) for holding a portion of a food product. At least one of the first and second parts of the capsule may include a substantially rigid connector portion ( 533 ) with at least one inlet for connecting to the apparatus wherein the at least one inlet defines a first flow direction for a fluid to be introduced into the inlet which first flow direction extends more than about 45 degrees to the direction of extension of the capsule. An apparatus may include an actuator for cooperating with the capsule.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS:

This application is the National Stage of International Application No.PCT/EP2009/064854, filed Nov. 9, 2009, the contents of which isincorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to the field of preparation anddispensing of products with products comprised in a capsule, inparticular food products, more in particular liquid food products, e.g.beverages. Improvements to capsules, to methods of preparing foodproducts, in particular liquid food products, as well as to apparatusand assemblies for preparing food products, in particular liquid foodproducts, are provided herein.

BACKGROUND

It is known to prepare liquid food products, by providing one or moreproducts comprised in a portion package or capsule, adding water to theproduct and dispensing the resultant liquid product mixture. Apparatusfor preparation of beverages such as tea, espresso, cappuccino and othercoffee varieties in such manner have become common household appliancesand corresponding capsules for preparation of various beverages havebecome common groceries.

It is desired by manufacturers and consumers alike that the dispensedfood product provides a consistent quality with each capsule.Reliability of the contents of the capsule and of the execution of apreparation recipe are therefore important. Further, consumers desireuser-friendliness of a capsule, availability of different products to beprepared with a single apparatus, hygiene and low costs.

SUMMARY

To address at least some of the above-mentioned issues, severalimprovements are presented.

As a first improvement, a capsule for holding in an interior space aportion of a product for preparing a food product, e.g. a liquid foodproduct such as a beverage in a food product preparation apparatus, isprovided, which capsule comprises a first part and a second part. Thefirst part and the second part are arranged along a direction ofextension, and the first and second parts define at least a portion ofthe interior space for holding said portion of a food product. At leastone of the first and second parts of the capsule comprises asubstantially rigid connector portion with at least one inlet forconnecting to the apparatus, preferably also at least one outlet. The atleast one inlet defines a first flow direction for a fluid to beintroduced into the inlet, which first flow direction extends more thanabout 45 degrees to the direction of extension of the capsule,preferably substantially perpendicular, e.g. radial, thereto.

Such capsule facilitates reliable connecting of the apparatus to aninlet (and if appropriate an outlet) of the capsule, e.g. with apredictable and/or constant force during operation such as preparationof the food product. Capsules of different volumes may havesubstantially identical or identically sized connector portions butdifferent sizes in the first direction of extension, facilitating use ofvarious capsules with a single apparatus without requiring an adapter.Deformation of the capsule in the direction of extension may befacilitated substantially without affecting coupling to the apparatus.Such deformation may be active, e.g. by the apparatus or an operatoracting on capsule, or passive, e.g. by pressurizing the capsule, byswelling of the capsule contents or by separation of movably arrangedparts of the capsule. This facilitates construction and manufacture ofthe capsule and allows reduction of chances of leakage, spilling and/orbypass of fluid around the capsule.

The outlet may define a second flow direction for a food product to bedispensed which second flow direction extends more than about 45 degreesto the direction of extension of the capsule, preferably substantiallyperpendicular thereto. The first and second flow directions may extendsubstantially parallel and/or in a substantially direct line.

Such capsules provide efficient use of space and predictable pressure tothe connector and the capsule as a whole.

Associated therewith, an assembly for preparing a portion of a foodproduct, e.g. a liquid food product such as a beverage, is provided. Theassembly comprises a capsule of the above-described type and anapparatus for preparing a food product comprising a receptacle foroperatively holding said capsule. The receptacle comprises a deformableportion and/or an actuator for manipulating at least a portion of saidcapsule. By the deformable portion, the apparatus can accommodatecapsules of different sizes (volumes). The deformable portion may beconfigured to compress at least a portion of the capsule. Deformationmay be accomplished by an actuator. Different actuators may be providedfor manipulating a capsule.

As another improvement, a capsule for holding in an interior space aportion of a product for preparing a food product, e.g. a liquid foodproduct such as a beverage in a food product preparation apparatus isprovided. The capsule comprises an information portion comprisingmachine readable information markings. The portion is formed such thatat least upon opening of the capsule for preparing said food productsaid portion is modified, e.g. deformed or destroyed, so as to presentat least one of no information markings, modified information markingsand illegible information markings to the apparatus.

Associated therewith, an assembly for preparing a portion of a liquidfood product such as a beverage, comprises such a capsule and anapparatus for preparing food products. The apparatus comprises areceptacle for operatively holding said capsule and a reader configuredto read said information markings. In the assembly at least one of theinformation portion and the machine is formed such that upon at leastone of opening or use of the capsule for preparing said food productwith said apparatus said information portion is modified, e.g. deformedor destroyed, so as to present at least one of no information markings,modified information markings and machine-illegible information markingsto the reader.

The machine readable information markings allow to identify the contentsof the capsule by the apparatus. The apparatus may then be operated toprepare said food product, which may be a liquid food product, based onthe information provided by the information markings such as executing apredetermined preparation recipe. For this, the apparatus may comprise acontroller for operation. The controller may be connected with a,possibly programmable, memory for storing instructions and/or recipes.The information markings may identify one or more a stored instructionsor recipes, possibly user-selectable e.g. via an interface provided onthe apparatus. The instructions of the information markings may beconfigured to define an entire recipe. By forming the capsule such thatthe information markings are modified upon opening of the capsuleevidence of previous use of and/or (attempts of) tampering with thecapsule and/or its contents which may otherwise go unnoticed is providedwhich may be used to affect, in particular to prevent, operation of theapparatus and preparation of the product to prevent not meetingstandards of quality and/or hygiene for the product to be prepared. Theportion may be actively deformed by one or more actuators and/orpassively deformed by one or more steps in the preparation process.

As another improvement, a capsule for holding in an interior space aportion of a food product for preparing a liquid food product in aliquid food product preparation apparatus comprises a substantiallyrigid connector portion for connecting to the apparatus, wherein saidconnector portion provides a plurality of inlets for a fluid, inparticular a liquid or a gas, and configured to couple at leastsubstantially liquid tight, preferably also gas tight, to acorresponding outlet for a fluid of the apparatus and at least oneoutlet for a fluid.

Associated therewith, an assembly for preparing a portion of a liquidfood product such as a beverage, is provided. The assembly comprises anapparatus for preparing a food product, and a capsule which comprises asubstantially rigid connector portion for connecting to the apparatusand which connector portion provides a plurality of inlets for a fluid.The apparatus comprises a receptacle for operatively holding saidcapsule and at least one outlet for a fluid corresponding to an inlet ofthe capsule. In the assembly the at least one outlet of the apparatusand the corresponding inlet of the capsule are configured to couple withan at least substantially liquid tight connection, preferably also gastight.

The connector portion of the capsule allows coupling of a predeterminedinlet to a corresponding outlet of the apparatus with a substantiallyliquid-tight, preferably also gas tight connection. This increaseshygiene of the apparatus and improves user-friendliness of the assembly,by preventing spilling within the apparatus and/or mixing ofsuccessively prepared products. A substantially rigid connectorfacilitates achieving such coupling since it improves positioning of theconnector portion and thus of the inlets. It further reduces accidentaldeformation compared to a soft or flexible material. The connectorportion may be or comprise a somewhat resilient portion or material,e.g. a rubber-like material, to provide a seal between a capsule inletand an apparatus outlet. The connector portion comprising an outletensures reliable positioning of the outlet. This also facilitatesdispensing the product straight from the capsule without requiring aconduit and/or spout of the apparatus.

As another improvement, a capsule for holding in an interior space aportion of a food product for preparing a liquid food product comprisesa first part and a second part which first and second parts define atleast a portion of the interior space for holding said portion of a foodproduct. The parts are movably connected and are arrangeable in a firstrelative position and a second relative position. In the first relativeposition at least one inlet and/or at least one outlet for a fluid isinaccessible and/or closed, and in the second relative position the atleast one inlet and/or the at least one outlet is accessible, openableand/or open.

Associated therewith, an assembly for preparing a portion of a liquidfood product such as a beverage, is provided. The assembly comprises anapparatus for preparing a food product and such aforementioned capsulecomprising a first part and a second part which first and second partsdefining at least a portion of the interior space for holding saidportion of a food product and being movably connected and arrangeable ina first relative position and a second relative position. The apparatuscomprises a manipulator for moving at least one of the first part andthe second part of said capsule thereof from at least the first relativeposition to the second relative position.

Associated therewith, a method of preparing a first food product withsuch capsule and an apparatus for preparing a food product comprising aportion for operatively holding said capsule is provided. In the method,said capsule comprises a first part and a second part, which first andsecond parts define at least a portion of the interior space for holdinga portion of a second food product, and which parts are movablyconnected and are arrangeable in a first relative position and a secondrelative position, wherein in the first relative position at least oneof at least one inlet and at least one outlet for a fluid is at leastone of inaccessible and closed, and wherein in the second relativeposition the at least one of at least one inlet and at least one outletfor a fluid is at least one of accessible, openable and open. The methodcomprises the steps of: arranging said capsule in the apparatus in thefirst relative position, arranging said first and second parts in thesecond relative position and opening at least one inlet, preferably alsoat least one outlet, preparing said first food product by addition of afluid to said second food product via said inlet, dispensing said firstfood product via at least one outlet, preferably said at least oneoutlet, and re-arranging said first and second parts in the firstrelative position and closing said at least one inlet, preferably alsosaid at least one outlet.

The capsule, assembly and method facilitate providing increased hygieneof the capsule and its contents, of the apparatus and of surroundings byhaving the first and second parts in the first relative position duringstoring and handling. The inlet is only made available for use afterarranging the parts in the second relative position. Chances of leakingof the capsule are thus reduced. In appropriate cases the same holds forone or more outlet openings. In such a case, and if the first and secondparts are movably connected so as to be arrangeable in the firstposition after at least one of opening and use of the capsule, thecapsule may be closed after use. Thus, subsequent leaking of the capsuleand portions of food products remaining in the capsule, e.g. coffeegrounds, may be prevented.

Such a capsule comprising a first part and a second part which first andsecond parts are movably connected and arrangeable in a first relativeposition and a second relative position may comprise an informationportion comprising machine readable information markings as describedabove. Said information portion may be attached to both the first partand the second part in the first position. Upon rearranging the capsuleinto the second position said information portion may be modified, e.g.at least one of deformed, broken and detached from at least one of thefirst and second parts. Thus, indication of a displacement of both partswith respect to each other from the first relative position to thesecond relative position is provided, e.g. for signaling tamperingand/or previous use of the capsule.

In such a capsule comprising a first part and a second part which firstand second parts are movably connected and arrangeable in a firstrelative position and a second relative position, may be configured suchthat in the first relative position the parts define a first volume andin the second relative position the parts define a second volume largerthan the first volume. This allows to provide an underpressure in theinterior space which may prevent leaking of the capsule upon itsopening. It further allows to reduce capsule volume for reasons ofstorage economy and/or preserving freshness of capsule contents and toprovide volume for introduction of a fluid into the interior space ofthe capsule for mixing with the contents within the capsule. Suchintroduction would otherwise necessitate displacement and/or compressionof the contents of the capsule. It further allows suction of air intothe interior space of the capsule to cause scattering of particulatematter within the capsule to improve subsequent mixing and/or wettingthereof.

Such a capsule comprising a first part and a second part which first andsecond parts are movably connected and arrangeable in a first relativeposition and a second relative position, may be configured such that thefirst and second are arrangeable also in a third relative position. Inthe third relative position a third volume, different from the first andsecond volumes, is defined and/or one or more further inlets and/or afurther outlets are accessible, openable and/or open. Thus, furtherflexibility of using the capsule is provided.

A capsule for holding in an interior space a portion of a food productfor preparing a liquid food product may comprise at least one dividerfor dividing the volume of the interior space into a plurality ofseparate compartments, e.g. for holding different portions of foodproduct or beverage or for holding portions of different food productsor beverages. At a predetermined time during preparation of the liquidproduct a particular component may be dispensed and/or the components oftwo or more compartment may be mixed. As an improvement of such acapsule the capsule is provided with a destructor arranged at leastpartially within the interior space for destructing said at least onedivider. The destructor may be rigid or movable and may be operable fromoutside the capsule. Operation of the destructor may be dependent on adeformation of the capsule.

As another improvement, a capsule for holding in an interior space aportion of a product for preparing a food product in a food productpreparation apparatus comprises a movable actuator, e.g. a mixer, apropeller or a destructor, arranged at least partially in the interiorspace and being configured to be operable from outside the interiorspace. This allows e.g. improved dispensing or mixing of at least aproduct contained within the capsule with a fluid.

SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above-described aspects and others will hereafter be more fullyexplained with reference to the drawings showing an embodiment of theinvention by way of example.

It is noted that the drawings are schematic, not necessarily to scaleand that details that are not required for understanding the presentinvention may have been omitted. The terms “upward”, “downward”,“below”, “above”, and the like relate to the embodiments as oriented inthe drawings.

FIGS. 1A-1B are a perspective view and a cross-sectional view,respectively of a first embodiment of a capsule in a first state;

FIGS. 1C-1D are a perspective view and a cross-sectional view,respectively of the capsule of FIGS. 1-2 in a second state;

FIGS. 1E-1F are perspective views of two parts of the capsule of FIGS.1A-1D;

FIGS. 2A-2B are perspective cut-away views of a second embodiment of acapsule in a first state and a second state, respectively;

FIGS. 3A-3E are perspective and cross-sectional views of a thirdembodiment of a capsule in a first state (3A), a second state (3B-3C)and a third state (3D-3E), respectively;

FIGS. 4A-4B are perspective cut-away views of a fourth embodiment of acapsule in a first, second and third state, respectively;

FIG. 5 is a detail of a tamper-evident information tab;

FIGS. 6, 7 and 8 are explosion views of different embodiments of acapsule, FIG. 6A is a regular (i.e. not exploded) side view of thecapsule of FIG. 6 and FIGS. 6B and 6C are partial cross-section views oftwo variants;

FIGS. 9A-9B are perspective views and FIG. 9C is a cross-sectional viewof a cap for a capsule of FIG. 6, 7 or 8;

FIGS. 10A-10B are perspective and cross-sectional views of another capfor a capsule of FIG. 6, 7 or 8;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another cap for a capsule of FIG. 6, 7or 8;

FIG. 12 is a partial perspective view of the capsule of FIG. 6 in anassociated apparatus;

FIGS. 13A-13E indicate a method of preparing a beverage with the capsuleof FIG. 6;

FIGS. 14A-14D indicate a method of preparing a beverage with the capsuleof FIG. 7;

FIGS. 15A-15D indicate a method of preparing a beverage with the capsuleof FIG. 8.

In the Figures, embodiments are denoted by hundreds (100, 200, etc) andelements that are at least substantially identical or that perform an atleast substantially identical function are denoted by the same numeralafter the hundred (e.g. 101, 201, 301 denote a body of capsules 100, 200and 300, respectively, etc.).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

FIGS. 1A-1F show a capsule 100, FIGS. 2A-2B show a capsule 200, FIGS.3A-3E show a capsule 300 and FIGS. 4A-4B show a capsule 400. FIGS. 6-8show capsules 500, 600, and 700, respectively.

The general construction and operation of the capsules of FIGS. 1-4Cwill be explained with reference to FIGS. 1A-1F.

The capsule 100 has generally elongated tubular shape with a maindirection of extension along an axis A and a substantially circularshape in cross-section perpendicular to the axis A, best seen in FIGS.1E and 1F. The capsule 100 may however have any other basic shape, e.g.be discoid along the axis A and/or having an ellipsoidal, polygonal,pillow-shaped and/or irregular cross-section section perpendicular tothe axis A.

The capsule 100 comprises a first part or body 101 and a second part orcap 102 which are connectable together to form the capsule 100. The body101 and the cap 102 are substantially rigid and may be made of anymaterial which is substantially rigid and which is compatible with theproduct (to be) contained within the capsule, e.g. plastic, metal and/orcardboard, which material may be coated or laminated on an inner and/orouter side, etc. Advantageously, the capsule is liquid tight, and/or gas(e.g. air) tight, at least on a time scale of a required minimum lifetime of the product to be stored within the capsule (e.g. “Best usedbefore”-date).

The body 101 comprises along the direction of extension A a closed tipportion 103 and a hollow sleeve 104 providing an open end opposite thetip portion. As shown, the body 101 may be provided with a connectorstructure 105 for coupling to a matching connector structure and/or anactuator of an apparatus. Here the connector structure 105 is in theform of a dent in at least the exterior of the sleeve 104 and which hereextends around the circumference of the sleeve 104. The body 101 furthercomprises a rim 106 extending along at least a portion of the sleeve 104and protruding radially from the sleeve 104 with respect to axis A.

The cap 102 forms a connector portion for connecting to an apparatus andcomprises a closed end portion 107 and a hollow sleeve 108 providing anopen end opposite the end portion 107. The end portion 107 extendsradially from the sleeve 108 with respect to the direction of extensionA. In (the sleeve 108 of) the cap 102 two inlets 109, 110 and an outlet111 are provided, which are in fluid communication with a hollow spacedefined by the end portion 107 and the sleeve 108. The directions ofopening of the inlets 109, 110 and outlet 111, and thus the flowdirection of a fluid there through are substantially radial with respectto the axis A. The inlet 110 is provided with a conduit 112 extendinginto the interior of the cap 102 (best visible in FIG. 1F). The cap 102may comprise a connector structure 113 for coupling to a matchingconnector structure and/or an actuator of an apparatus. The cap 102further comprises a tab 114 which will be discussed in more detail laterwith respect to FIG. 5.

The sleeve portion 108 of the cap 102 fits inside the sleeve 104 of thebody 101 with an at least liquid tight seal to movably connect the body101 and the cap 102 and to form the capsule 100. When connected, thebody 101 and the cap 102 together define a hollow interior space S inwhich a product may be contained.

When connected, the body 101 and cap 102 are arrangeable in a firststate, shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B in which the parts 101, 102 are arranged ina first relative position, and in a second state, different from thefirst state, shown in FIGS. 1C, 1D in which the parts 101, 102 arearranged in a second relative position.

In the first state, the cap 102 and the body 101 are fit togetherclosely, here with the end portion 107 of the cap 102 abutting thesleeve 104 of the body 101. At least a portion of the sleeve 104 of thebody 101 fully covers the inlets 109, 110 and the outlet 111 such thatthey are closed and inaccessible. The interior space S of the capsule100 then has a first volume V1.

In the second state, the body 101 and the cap 102 are pulled slightlyapart along the direction of axis A, e.g. by an apparatus acting onconnector structures 105, 113. In this second state, the inlets 109, 110and the outlet 111 are outside the sleeve 104 of the body 101 so thatthey are accessible and the inlets and outlets may be open or openablewhen otherwise closed, e.g. with a cover foil (not shown). The interiorspace S of the capsule 100 then has a second volume V2>V1.

In the second state, cap 102 provides a substantially rigid possiblysomewhat flexible connector portion for connecting to an apparatus. Eachinlet 109, 110 may serve to couple and seal at least substantiallyliquid tight to a corresponding outlet for a fluid of the apparatus.

Introducing a fluid, e.g. water, to the interior space S of the capsulevia an inlet 109, 110, at a relatively low-pressure and/orintermittently allows mixing of the liquid and the capsule contentswithin the capsule. The resultant mixture may be dispensed straight fromthe outlet 111 into a container, e.g. a mixed beverage into a drinkingglass, with the outlet 111 defining the flow direction for the mixture.Providing a high-speed liquid jet to the capsule 100 through inlet 109and out of the outlet 111 may cause a venturi-effect between the end ofthe conduit 112 and the outlet 111 to pump liquid contents contained inthe interior space S out of said space S, during which the liquid andthe contents of the capsule may be well mixed. Alternatively or incombination therewith, a fluid such as a liquid or a gas may beintroduced into the capsule 100, e.g. via the inlet 110 to empty and/orassist or ensure emptying of the capsule. Using carbonated water forsuch liquid jet of is conceivable; introducing CO₂ in the capsule, e.g.via inlet 110 may counteract degassing of the carbonated water whenmixing.

After preparing and dispensing the product the capsule 100 can berestored to the first state for hygienic disposal.

Suitable contents of the capsule are liquids, syrups and concentratesfor beverages or flowable particulate material such as powdered milk andsoups. Liquid to be added, in particular water, may be cold, hot or haveany other desired temperature.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown) the body 101 and cap 102 isconfigured to provide first and second states differing by a relativerotation about the axis A instead of a relative translation as shown, soas to (un-)cover, (un-)block and/or open one or more inlets and/oroutlets. In yet another embodiment (also not shown), the body 101 andcap 102 are connected with a screw-coupling, providing both rotation andtranslation.

Referring now to FIGS. 2A-2B, the capsule 200 differs mainly from thecapsule 100 in that a first divider 215 and a second divider 216 areprovided in the interior space S of the capsule 200, which separate theinterior space S in three separate compartments, C1, C2, C3. The firstdivider 215 is wall portion attached to and extending from the endportion 207 of the cap 202 towards the tip portion 203 of the body 201and spanning the interior width of the capsule 200. The second divider216 is a filter attached to the first divider 215 and extending radiallywith respect to the axis A and spanning the interior width of thecompartment C2 to close the compartment off from the compartments C1,C3. The dividers 215, 216 are attached to the cap 202 and movable withrespect to the body 201, such that upon rearranging the body 201 and thecap 202 from the first state of the container (FIG. 2A) to the secondstate of the container (FIG. 2B) the position of the filter 216 ischanged and a change of the volume of the interior space S of thecapsule 200 works on compartment C2.

The inlet 209 of the capsule 200 is in direct communication with thefirst compartment C1 and the outlet 211 of the capsule 200 is in directcommunication with the third compartment C3. Due to the divider 215, aliquid, e.g. hot water, introduced into the capsule 200 via inlet 209can only exit the outlet 211 after having passed the second compartmentC2 as indicated by the arrows in FIG. 2B. The inlet 209 may beconfigured to at least partially define a predetermined flow directionfor a fluid introduced into the inlet 209 with a flow direction having acomponent towards the tip portion 203 and the second compartment C2.

The capsule 200 is very well suited for particulate matter, e.g. coffeeor loose-leaf tea contained in the second compartment C2, since allwater must pass this compartment C2 while the particulate matter is heldby the filter. The increased volume of the second compartment C2 allowsswelling of the coffee powder or tea leaves contained therein duringbrewing of the beverage. As in capsule 100, a gas or air pressure may beprovided via an inlet (not visible) to assist emptying the capsule fromfluids. As in capsule 100, when pressure builds inside the capsule 200the sleeve 208 of the cap 202 is pressed against the sleeve 204 withincreased force and the interconnection is sealed more tightly.

Referring now to FIGS. 3A-3E, the capsule 300 comprises first to fifthdividers 315-319. The first and second dividers 315 and 316 aresubstantially equal in construction and function to the dividers 215 and216 of the capsule 200 discussed above and divide the interior space ofthe capsule 300 in three compartments C1-C3. Likewise, an inlet 310 isin direct communication with the first compartment C1 and an outlet 311is in direct communication with the third compartment C3.

The third and fourth dividers 317, 318 are substantially tubular, extendsubstantially along the direction of extension A from the body 301 andthe cap 302, respectively, and together define a fourth compartment C4within the interior space S of the capsule 300. The fourth compartmentC4 is separated substantially fluid-tightly from the other compartmentsC1-C3. The fifth divider 319 extends from the cap 302 within thecompartment C4 and spans the interior width of the compartment C4. Thefourth compartment is in fluid connection with individual inlet 309 andoutlet 320.

As the capsules 100 and 200, the capsule 300 is arrangeable in a firststate (FIG. 3A) with the inlets and outlets inaccessible, and in asecond state (FIGS. 3B, 3C) in which inlets 309 and 310 and a firstoutlet 311 are open for coupling with an apparatus. In the second statethe outlet 320 of the fourth compartment C4 is closed (by the sleeve304) and inaccessible from outside the capsule 300. In the second statethe capsule 300 is configured to be used with inlets 310 and outlet 311as described before. The capsule 300 is further arrangeable in a thirdstate (FIGS. 3D-3E) in which the body 301 and cap 302 are in a thirdrelative position such that (also) the outlet 320 is open. In the thirdstate the fourth compartment C4 may be used for preparing a product byintroduction of a fluid therein via inlet 309, mixing the fluid with aproduct contained in the fourth compartment C4 and dispensing theresultant product via outlet 320. The fifth divider 319 facilitatesproper mixing within the fourth compartment C4, as discussed for divider215 in capsule 200 (see the arrows in FIG. 3E).

The first, second and fifth dividers 315, 316, 319 are optional,depending on the product contained in the capsule. The capsule 300 isparticularly suited for storing or preserving different types inseparate conditions and/or for dispensing different productssubsequently, e.g. coffee with a cream layer on top, soup with croutons,dairy products and cereals, or differently coloured cocktails.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown) such capsule may be comprise aninlet for the fourth compartment C4 which is closed in the second stateand open in the third state. Closing off an inlet or outlet may also bedue to cooperation between the third and fourth dividers 317, 318.Further compartments may be made available in similar fashion. Separatedcompartments need not be coaxial as shown but may be juxtaposed. Theymay have equal or different volumes.

Referring now to FIGS. 4A, 4B, a capsule 400 is shown which, likecapsule 300, comprises first to fourth dividers 415-418 to divide theinterior space of the capsule in four compartments C1-C4. Substantiallyidentical to capsule 300, capsule 400 is also arrangeable in a firststate (FIG. 4A), a second state (not shown) and a third state (FIG. 4B)for intentionally closing and opening inlets 409, 410 and outlets 411and 420. Different from capsule 300, capsule 400 lacks a fifth divider.Instead, a stirrer or mixer 421 is provided which comprises a pluralityof blades 422 and openings 423. The mixer 421 may be a passive labyrinthbut in the shown embodiment the mixer 421 is movably (rotatably) mountedalong the axis A to an elongated spindle 424 and a fitting 425, suchthat the mixer 421 substantially stays in place in the first to thirdstates of the capsule 400. On an end of the mixer 421 a connector 426 isprovided, e.g. an I- or X-shaped slot or blade or a hexagonal coupling,for coupling to an actuator (not shown) for operating the mixer 421 byrotating it about the axis A by hand and/or machine (FIG. 4B). The mixer421 facilitates thorough beating of a product in the fourth compartmentC4 and/or mixing the product with a liquid introduced via inlet 409,e.g. for use with poorly-miscible products, or to provide whipped creamor foamed milk for cappuccino.

Another movable actuator may be provided in similar fashion, such as apropeller for dispensing a thick fluid and/or particulate matter, e.g.cereals, croutons etc., from the capsule, e.g. a screw worm. A movableactuator may be provided in any compartment or undivided interior spaceS of a capsule.

FIG. 5 shows a partially cut-away detail of capsule 100, which may besubstantially identical for any capsule 100-400. FIG. 5 shows the tab114, best visible otherwise in FIG. 1E, and (portions of) the sleeve 104and rim 106 of the body 101 and the end portion 104 and sleeve 105 ofthe cap 102. The tab 114 is attached to the cap 102 with one or moreribs or necks 127. The tab 114 comprises a latch 128 and machinereadable information markings 129, e.g. presenting tactile or reliefcodes, optical marking such as bar code, matrix code, colour code,reflection code and/or magnetic or RFID code, etc.

After manufacture, one or both parts 101, 102 of the capsule 100 may befilled at least partially with a product. The capsule 100 is thenassembled by inserting the cap 102 into the body 101 until the endportion 107 of the cap 102 abuts the rim 106 of the body 101. The latch128 and the rim 106 form cooperating latching features to provide asnap-fit for attaching the cap 102 to the body 101. The tab 114, the rim106 and the necks 127 are formed such that opening of the capsule 100causes deformation and/or rupture of one or more of the necks 127 andtherewith at least partial modification and/or destruction of the tab114. Thus, correct positioning of the markings 129 for a machine readeris substantially hindered or prevented and, at least machine-detectable,tamper-evidence is provided.

FIGS. 6-8 show capsules 500, 600 and 700, respectively. Their generalconstruction and operation will now be explained with reference tocapsule 500 in FIGS. 6 and 6A. The capsule 500 has a generally elongatedflattened shape extending in a main direction of extension A. Thecapsule 500 comprises a first part or body 501 and a second part or cap502, which are connectable together to form the capsule 500.

Different from the bodies 101-401, the body 501 is formed with plural(here: two) sheets 530 and 531 attached together, e.g. by gluing,welding, or rolling along a seam. The body 501 comprises a closed tipportion 503 and a hollow sleeve portion 504 providing an open endopposite the tip portion 503. The body 501 may be substantially rigid orat least partially easily deformable, e.g. flexible and/or pliable. Thecap 502 is substantially rigid, possibly (partially) resilient tofacilitating a liquid tight seal to an apparatus. The capsule 500 may bemade of any material which is compatible with the product (to be)contained within the capsule, e.g. plastic, metal and/or cardboard,which material may be coated or laminated on an inner and/or outer side,etc.

The cap 502, to be treated in more detail below with respect to FIGS.9A-11, forms a connector portion for connecting to an apparatus andcomprises an end portion 507 and a hollow sleeve 508. The end portion507 comprises an optional end plate 532 and a conduit block 533. Thesleeve 508, here also the conduit block 533, is formed pillow-shaped toclosely accord the shape of the body 501 so as to fits inside the sleeve504 of the body 501 with an at least liquid tight seal and preventpoints or zones of stress and/or leaks at the interconnection betweenthe body 501 and the cap 502.

A rigid body 501 may be movably connected to the cap 502 to form acapsule of the type of capsules 100-400, also possibly comprising a tab114. Alternatively and discussed in the following, (the sleeve 504 of)the body 501 is flexibly pliable and fixed to (the sleeve 508 of) thecap 502. When connected, the body 501 and the cap 502 together define ahollow interior space S in which a product may be contained.

As shown in FIGS. 6B and 6C, a flexible body 501 may be fixed to the cap502 and comprise one or more folds F, e.g. in harmonica fashion withfolded sections extending substantially radial to the direction ofextension A (FIG. 6B) and/or with sections lying substantially parallelto the direction of extension A (FIG. 6C). In folded state (e.g. FIGS.6B, 6C), (the tip portion of) the body 501 and the cap 502 are arrangedin a first relative position and define a first volume V1. In unfoldedstate (e.g. FIG. 6A) (the tip portion of) the body 501 and the cap 502are arranged in a second relative position and define a second volumeV2>V1. Unfolding may be in portions, to provide a third or further statewith according volume V3, V4 etc. One or more folded sections mayoverlap the sleeve 508, whereby one or more inlets and or outlets may beinaccessible and/or closed in a (partially) folded state and beaccessible of open in a (partially) unfolded state. Folds may further beused to provide a tamper-evident portion.

To be discussed in more detail below, the cap 502 provides a pluralityof inlets and outlets for using the capsule. Shown in FIG. 6 is a foilcover 534 which may cover one or more inlets and/or (as shown here:)outlets, e.g. for hygienic reasons, and which may comprise machinereadable information markings Upon use of the capsule 500 the cover 534is perforated or removed, e.g. by a product forcefully injected into orejected from the capsule, respectively, providing tamper-evidence andpreventing an accurate machine reading of the information markingsoriginally present.

Referring now to FIG. 7, the capsule 600 comprises a body portion 601, acap 602 and a cover 634. Different from capsule 500, in the capsule 600a first divider 635 is provided in the interior space S of the capsule600 separating the interior space S in a first compartment C1 and asecond compartment C2. The shown divider 635 is configured to beattached to the first and second sheets 630, 631 forming the body 601.The divider 635 may be a filter to retain particulate matter, e.g.coffee grounds or tea leaves.

Referring now to FIG. 8, the capsule 700 comprises a body portion 701, acap 702 and a cover 734. The capsule 700 is provided with an insert 736within the interior space S. The insert 736 is formed by a divider inthe form of two sheets 737, 738 enclosing a compartment C2, therewithseparating the interior space S in a first compartment C1 and a secondcompartment C2. Different from capsule 600, the inset 736 is notattached to another portion of the capsule but forms a “floating” insertin the capsule 700.

Referring now to FIGS. 9A-11, several embodiments of caps for use in oneor more of the capsules 500-700 will be discussed. It should be notedthat the presented aspects also apply mutatis mutandis to the caps 102,202, 302 and/or 402 of FIGS. 1A-4B.

FIGS. 9A and 9B are perspective views of cap 502 and FIG. 9C is across-sectional view of the cap 502 in the plane IXC indicated in FIG.9A. Likewise, FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a cap 502A and FIG. 10Bis a cross sectional view thereof in the plane XB indicated in FIG. 10A.FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a cap 502B.

The cap 502 (502A, 502B) comprises an end portion 507 with an end plate532 and a conduit block 533, and a hollow sleeve portion 508. The endplate 532 and optional wings 539 define abutments for the sleeve 504 ofthe body 501 (not shown here).

The conduit block 533 comprises one or more (here: three) inlets 540-542for coupling to a corresponding outlet for a fluid of an apparatus, oneor more outlets 543-545 for dispensing a product. In the conduit block533, one or more connections (e.g. 546 and 547, respectively) between(one or more compartments of) the interior space S of a capsule and anoutlet (e.g. 543) or an inlet (e.g. 542) are provided. As with the cap102, the inlets and outlets of the cap 502 extend substantiallyperpendicular to the main axis of extension of the capsule A.

As shown in FIGS. 9C and 10B, one or more inlets 540-542 may be closedoff with walls 548-550 within the conduit block 533 (FIG. 9C). Thisfacilitates standardising connections of both capsule and apparatuswhile adapting the architecture of the conduits cap to suit a particularproduct/capsule. It further allows preserving the contents of thecapsule. To facilitate removing the obstruction of such optional wall550 and the inlet 542 with the interior space S of the capsule viaconnection 547 the wall 550 is provided with a forcing pin or stub 551.The conduit portion 533, wall 550 and stub 551 may be formed such thatupon breaking off the wall the freed portion 550, 551 is retained in theconduit portion 533 and prevented from entering the interior space S ofthe capsule. The (tip 552 of the) stub 551 may comprise one or moreinformation marks, which become modified or illegible by an automatedreader upon opening the capsule.

Just as discussed for capsules 100-300, executing a preparation recipemay require introduction of one or more fluids into (a compartment of)the capsule. To dispense a fluid without mixing with a product containedwithin the capsule one or more bypass conduits may be provided. This maybe beneficial for dispensing carbonated beverages, since redirecting orobstructing a flow thereof may cause premature release of the gas. Cap502A of FIGS. 10A, 10B comprises two bypasses (541-544 and 542-545) andan outlet for a product contained in the capsule, e.g. a syrup, formixing with carbonated water underway to or in a container e.g. a glass.As in capsule 100, a venturi-based mixing arrangement may also beprovided. Cap 502B further comprises a pointed protrusion 553 and threeribs 554, to be discussed below.

FIG. 12 shows a portion of an assembly comprising an apparatus 1 forpreparing liquid food products and a capsule 500. The apparatus 1comprises a receptacle 2 for operatively holding the capsule, herecomprising two shells 3, 4 configured to operably receive and hold atleast a portion of a capsule of the type 500-700. The apparatuscomprises a connector portion 5 which comprises a number of outlets 6for a fluid. The outlets 6 correspond to inlets 540-542 of the capsule500 and are provided with a sealing portion to couple with thecorresponding inlets 540-542 with a substantially liquid- and gas tightconnection. The outlets 6 may be connected to a manifold for supplyingfluids such as hot and/or cold water, carbonated water, pressurised gas(e.g. air or CO₂). The apparatus further comprises a plunger 7 (seebelow). The apparatus 1 may comprise a reader (not shown) configured toread information markings provided on the capsule 500 and a controllerto process the information and to operate the apparatus accordingly. Asshown, the end portion 507 of the capsule 500 may remain visible to anoperator from outside of the apparatus 1 during use of the assemblyfacilitating identifying and/or advertising a product.

FIGS. 13A-13E indicate a method of preparing a liquid food product withthe assembly of a capsule 500 and the apparatus 1. The method comprises:arranging the capsule 500 containing a product to be prepared in theapparatus (FIG. 13A), optionally reading information markings providedon the capsule, and preparing the liquid food product, where appropriatebased on the information provided by the information markings. In theshown method preparation of the product involves:

-   -   optionally adapting the receptacle to the size of the capsule        500 along the direction of extension A by appropriately        positioning the plunger 7;    -   introducing on or more fluids, e.g. (carbonated) water or a gas,        from an outlet 6 into (a compartment in) the interior space S of        the capsule 500 via an inlet 540-542. During this, a suitably        formed capsule may become pressurised and increase in volume;    -   allowing at least a portion of the fluid and at least a portion        of the product to mix within the interior space S of the capsule        500 (FIG. 13B);    -   dispensing at least a portion of the fluid, the product and/or        the mixture from the container (FIG. 13C). In appropriate cases,        dispensing may start when the internal pressure within the        capsule has risen sufficient to rupture or tear away the cover        534. It may be observed that the apparatus 1 and the capsule 500        are configured such that the prepared product is dispensed        straight from (an outlet 543 of) the capsule 500, without the        apparatus 1 requiring a spout. Inadvertent mixing of        subsequently produced products is thus prevented.

To assist and/or expedite dispensing from the container the shownapparatus 1 comprises and uses an actuator, here a plunger 7, fordeforming e.g. compressing a deformable container 500 (FIGS. 13C-13E).Such compressing is facilitated by the cap 502 being substantiallyrigid, allowing the apparatus 1 to couple with appropriate features ofthe capsule, e.g. the wings 539 of the cap 520, for counteractingpressure of the plunger 7. A compressed capsule reduces waste volume,further, a capsule once freed from the apparatus is likely to relaxsomewhat and therewith may suck liquid product back into the capsule.Thus, leaking is prevented at least initially after removing thecapsule.

Such method of preparation is very well suited for preparation ofbeverages from powders, syrups or concentrates, e.g. soft drinks, cocoa,smoothies and/or alcoholic beverages.

Upon closing the receptacle and/or opening an inlet and/or outlet of thecapsule information markings may be deformed and/or destroyed so as toprevent reuse of the capsule. This is most relevant for a capsule whichis substantially not deformed during use, since deformation of thecapsule, e.g. compressing, may generally indicate prior use to consumerand apparatus alike.

An apparatus configured for use with a capsule of FIGS. 1-6C maycomprise an actuator for rearranging the first and second parts betweentheir first, second and/or third etc. states.

Since the inlets and outlets of the shown embodiments are orientedsubstantially perpendicular to the axis A and the manipulationcompression is operational in the direction of the axis A, interferencebetween manipulation and executing a recipe or dispensing may beminimal.

FIGS. 14A-14E show a method of brewing coffee as a method for preparinga product with capsule 600 of FIG. 7. The capsule 600 contains coffee inthe second compartment C2 which is separated from an inlets and outletsby a filter divider 635. The interior space S of the capsule 600 isotherwise preferably evacuated and/or provided with a protectiveatmosphere to preserve the product.

The capsule 600 is arranged in the apparatus 1 (FIG. 14A) andinformation markings on the capsule may be read to identify a suitablebrewing processes.

The capsule 600 is opened, possibly destroying any information markings,and hot water is introduced into the first compartment C1 of the capsule600. The water is left to permeate the filter 635 and to wet the coffeein the compartment C2 (FIG. 14B). The capsule 600 is flexible, folded orsomewhat elastic to allow the coffee to swell within the capsule 600. Ata desired time the brewed product (coffee) may be dispensed from thecapsule. The capsule may be sized to comprise the contents of a full cupof coffee or only a fraction thereof. In the latter case dispensing ofthe brewed product may include introduction of additional water ormixing with water dispensed via a bypass. Shown in FIGS. 14C-14D isagain forced dispensing by compressing the container. Coffee grounds areretained by the filter 635 within the capsule at the end of the brewingprocess.

Such capsule and method are also very well suited for brewing espressoor tea and/or preparing other extracts. Sweetener or sugar and/orcreamer or milk may also be dispensed via a bypass conduit.

FIGS. 15A-15D show a method of preparation of a product with the capsule700 of FIG. 8. The capsule 700 is arranged in the apparatus 1 (FIG. 14A)and information markings on the capsule 700 may be read to identify asuitable preparation recipe. Next a fluid, e.g. water or carbonatedwater is introduced into the first compartment C1 and allowed to mixwith the product contained therein (FIG. 15B). The mixed product is thendispensed from the capsule. In case the dividing wall 737, 738 of theinsert is not dissolved (fast enough) in the mixture in the firstcompartment C1, forced dispensing with a plunger 7 may be applied (FIG.15C). Since the insert is “floating” within the compartment C1 thiscompartment will be emptied first, until substantially only the insertremains. Upon continued compression by the plunger 7 the insert willburst such that its contents can be dispensed, allowing to dispense adual-layered product (FIG. 15D).

Similar effect may be achieved with destructing the divider of a capsule600 having a non-permeable divider 635 or a capsule having an insert 736which is attached to a portion of the container at one or morepositions.

To facilitate destructing the divider 635, 737, 738, the capsule maycomprise a destructor such as the protrusion 553 of cap 502B of FIG. 11.This may reduce load on the apparatus and increase reliability of thedesired rupturing. To ensure the possibility of fluid flow between awall or a divider and a cap 502-702, a cap may comprise separators suchas the ribs 554 (see cap 502B of FIG. 11) to provide a channel forfluid.

Such capsule and method of preparation are particularly suited forpreparation of cappuccino, (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) cocktails or hotcocoa with cream. Soups with croutons are also conceivable, with thecroutons comprised in an insert, which insert should be ruptured and thecroutons dispensed before being crumbled by the plunger 7.

The invention is not restricted to the above described embodiments whichcan be varied in a number of ways within the scope of the claims. Forinstance a capsule of the type 100-400 may comprise at least one dividerfor dividing the volume of the interior space in at least a firstcompartment and a second compartment. Said divider may be configured,e.g. attached to one of the first and second parts, such that in thefirst state of the first and second parts the first compartment and thesecond compartment are separated and in the second state of the firstand second parts the first compartment and the second compartment are influid communication with each other.

This allows mixing of contents contained within the capsule at apredetermined time, e.g. prior to introduction of a fluid to thecontents.

A capsule of such type may further comprise an insert, e.g. a floatinginsert and be arrangeable in a third state (relative position of theparts) wherein said insert may enter (e.g. fall, be pushed or be pulled)a compartment into which it cannot fit in the first and second state.Upon returning the capsule to the second state the insert may beruptured, e.g. with the aid of a destructor, so as to free its contentsinto the interior space of the capsule and/or for dispensing.

A divider may comprise any desired characteristic dependent on itsdesired function(s), e.g. it may be soft, flexible, rigid, closed and/orpartially open e.g. as a filter, etc. A divider may be substantiallypermanent, e.g. at least for the desired shelf-life of the capsule, andit may be degradable e.g. soluble.

A capsule of the type 100-400 may also be wholly or partiallycompressible as described above with reference to FIGS. 13A-15D. Acapsule of the type 500-700 may also comprise a movable actuator, e.g. amixer. For reliability the actuator may be attached to a substantiallyrigid cap. In case the mixer extends into the capsule not further than asleeve 508 of a cap 502 or substantially identical embodiment, breakingoff of the mixer in pieces which may enter the product to be preparedmay be prevented. For safety reasons, any actuator and/or divider may beprovided with one or more weak spots or regions, such that in case offracture the fragments are likely to be too large to pass through anoutlet so that they should not end up in the prepared and dispensedproduct.

Elements and aspects discussed for or in relation with a particularembodiment may be suitably combined with elements and aspects of otherembodiments, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

1.-20. (canceled)
 21. A capsule for holding in an interior space aportion of a product for preparing a food product in a food productpreparation apparatus, wherein the capsule comprises a first part and asecond part, wherein the first part and the second part are arrangedalong a direction of extension, wherein the first and second partsdefine at least a portion of the interior space for holding said portionof a food product, wherein at least one of the first and second parts ofthe capsule comprises a substantially rigid connector portion with atleast one inlet for connecting to the apparatus, wherein the at leastone inlet defines a first flow direction for a fluid to be introducedinto the inlet, which first flow direction extends more than about 45degrees to the direction of extension of the capsule.
 22. The capsule ofclaim 21, wherein the connector portion comprises at least one outlet,and wherein the outlet defines a second flow direction for a foodproduct to be dispensed, which second flow direction extends more thanabout 45 degrees to the direction of extension of the capsule.
 23. Thecapsule of claim 22, wherein the first and second flow directions extendat least one of substantially parallel and in a substantially directline.
 24. The capsule of claim 21, wherein the capsule comprises aninformation portion comprising machine readable information markings;wherein the information portion is formed such that at least uponopening of the capsule for preparing said food product said portion ismodified, so as to present at least one of no information markings,modified information markings and illegible information markings to theapparatus.
 25. The capsule of claim 21, wherein said connector portioncomprises a plurality of inlets for a fluid wherein each said inlet isconfigured to couple at least substantially liquid tight to acorresponding outlet for a fluid of the apparatus and wherein saidconnector portion comprises at least one outlet for a fluid.
 26. Thecapsule of claim 21, wherein the first part and the second part aremovably connected and are arrangeable in a first relative position and asecond relative position, wherein in the first relative position the atleast one inlet for a fluid is at least one of inaccessible and closed,and wherein in the second relative position the at least one inlet for afluid is at least one of accessible, openable and open.
 27. The capsuleof claim 22, wherein the first part and the second part are movablyconnected and are arrangeable in a first relative position and a secondrelative position, wherein in the first relative position the at leastone inlet for a fluid is at least one of inaccessible and closed and theat least one outlet for a fluid is at least one of inaccessible andclosed, wherein in the second relative position the at least one inletfor a fluid is at least one of accessible, openable and open and the atleast one outlet for a fluid is at least one of accessible, openable andopen, and wherein the first part and the second part are movablyconnected so as to be arrangeable from the second relative position intothe first position.
 28. The capsule of claim 26, wherein in the firstposition said information portion is attached to both the first part andthe second part, and wherein the capsule is formed such that in thesecond position said information portion is modified by at least one ofdeformed, broken and detached from at least one of the first and secondparts.
 29. The capsule of claim 26, wherein in the first relativeposition the first part and the second part define a first volume and inthe second relative position the first and second parts define a secondvolume, larger than the first volume.
 30. The capsule of claim 27,wherein in the first position said information portion is attached toboth the first part and the second part, and wherein the capsule isformed such that in the second position said information portion ismodified by at least one of deformed, broken and detached from at leastone of the first and second parts.
 31. The capsule of claim 27, whereinin the first relative position the first part and the second part definea first volume and in the second relative position the first and secondparts define a second volume, larger than the first volume.
 32. Thecapsule of claim 29, wherein the first part and the second part arearrangeable in a third relative position wherein in the third relativeposition at least one of third volume, different from the first volumeand the second volume, is defined and at least one of a further inletand a further outlet for a food product is at least one of accessible,openable and open.
 33. The capsule of claim 21, wherein the capsulecomprises at least one divider for dividing the interior space into aplurality of separate compartments and wherein at least two of theseparate compartments comprise at least one of an individual inlet andan individual outlet for a fluid.
 34. The capsule of claim 21, whereinsaid capsule is configured to be deformable for being emptied bycompression of the capsule.
 35. The capsule of claim 33, wherein thecapsule comprises a destructor arranged at least partially within theinterior space for destructing said at least one divider.
 36. Thecapsule of claim 21, wherein the capsule comprises a movable actuator,arranged at least partially in the interior space and being configuredto be operable from outside the interior space.
 37. An assembly forpreparing a portion of a food product, comprising a capsule according toclaim 21 and an apparatus for preparing a food product comprising areceptacle for operatively holding said capsule wherein said receptaclecomprises at least one of a deformable portion and an actuator formanipulating at least a portion of said capsule.
 38. The assembly ofclaim 37, wherein the capsule comprises an information portioncomprising machine readable information markings; wherein the apparatuscomprises a reader configured to read said information markings; andwherein at least one of the information portion and the machine isformed such that at least upon opening of the capsule for preparing saidfood product with said apparatus, said information portion is modifiedso as to present at least one of no information markings, modifiedinformation markings and machine-illegible information markings to thereader.
 39. The assembly of claim 37, wherein said connector portionprovides a plurality of inlets for a fluid and at least one outlet for afluid, wherein said apparatus comprises at least one outlet for a fluidcorresponding to an inlet of the capsule, and wherein said at least oneoutlet of the apparatus and said corresponding inlet of the capsule areconfigured to couple with an at least substantially liquid tightconnection.
 40. The assembly of claim 37, wherein said apparatuscomprises a receptacle configured to operably receive at least a portionof the capsule, wherein the first part and the second part of thecapsule are movably connected and are arrangeable in a first relativeposition and a second relative position, wherein in the first relativeposition at least one inlet for a fluid is at least one of inaccessibleand closed, and wherein in the second relative position the at least oneinlet for a fluid is at least one of accessible, openable and open,wherein said apparatus comprises a manipulator for moving at least oneof the first part and the second part of the capsule from at least thefirst relative position to the second relative position.
 41. Theassembly of claim 37, configured such that, in use, at least a portionof the capsule is visible to an operator from outside of the apparatus.42. A method of preparing a first food product with a capsule and anapparatus for preparing a food product comprising a receptacle foroperatively holding said capsule, wherein said capsule comprises a firstpart and a second part, which first and second parts define at least aportion of an interior space for holding a portion of a second foodproduct, and which parts are movably connected and are arrangeable in afirst relative position and a second relative position, wherein in thefirst relative position at least one of at least one inlet and at leastone outlet for a fluid is at least one of inaccessible and closed, andwherein in the second relative position the at least one of at least oneinlet and at least one outlet for a fluid is at least one of accessible,openable and open; the method comprising the steps of: arranging saidcapsule in the apparatus in the first relative position, arranging saidfirst and second parts in the second relative position and opening atleast one inlet, preparing said first food product by addition of afluid to said second food product via said inlet, dispensing said firstfood product via said at least one outlet and re-arranging said firstand second parts in the first relative position and closing said atleast one inlet.